Best Baby Shower Gifts

Five beloved, classic books to bring to a baby shower

Guest Blogger  //  Jul 2, 2019

Five beloved, classic books to bring to a baby shower

We’re thrilled to announce a new series on OOM—The Best Baby Shower Gifts!

Whether you’re gifting a board book instead of a card (a growing tradition that we absolutely love) or sharing a classic keepsake that parents will read with little ones as they grow, we have plenty of suggestions. 

Look out for themed lists, spotlights on our absolute favorites, and other ideas on how to help new parents grow their libraries. 

We’re kicking off the series with a roundup of five beloved classic books that have proven tried and true for little ones and their caregivers over the years (plus some extra proof from parents around the Scholastic office!).

Enjoy, and check out scholastic.com/babyshower for more suggestions!

Five Beloved Classic Books

I Love You Through and Through by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak with illustrations by Caroline Jayne Church

With its special message of unconditional love, this board book has rightfully earned its place as a classic. The rhyming text reminds little ones that every part of them is cherished, and award-winning illustrator Caroline Jayne Church’s artwork adds humor, inventiveness, and a special brand of coziness. 

Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae with illustrations by Guy Parker-Rees

This perennial bestseller stars Gerald, a giraffe who, according to all of the other animals, “can’t dance,”—until he finally learns to believe in himself and dance to his own tune. With bright illustrations and a loveable main character, this is the perfect book to encourage little ones to go after their dreams, no matter what.  

“My two-year-old loves pointing out and naming the animals on every page!” - Geoff D., Director, Marketing Services 

I Love You, Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt with illustrations by Cyd Moore

I Love You, Stinky Face was first published in 2003 and has since inspired an entire series, including Thank You, Stinky Face and I Miss You, Stinky Face. In the original story, a little boy asks his mom if she’d still love him if he were a dinosaur, a swamp monster, or smelled like a skunk! The answer, of course, is yes. This sweet and silly story will keep little ones giggling and feeling utterly secure.

Clifford the Big Red Dog by Norman Bridwell

No child’s library could be complete without Clifford! This hardcover edition feels timeless and is the perfect introduction to everyone’s favorite big red dog.

Clifford the Big Red Dog is a favorite in my house—my 4-year-old loves when we read this together with his baby sister! It’s always on my list for new baby gifts.” - Stephanie P., Manager, Cross Channel Marketing

I Love You Because You’re You by Liza Baker with illustrations by David McPhail

This family favorite is an ode to moms’ unconditional love—Mama Fox adores her cub whether he’s happy or frightened, bashful or silly. The padded cover is soft for little hands, and kids will love the bouncing rhyme and reassuring message.